What was meant to be an ordinary football training session has now turned into heartbreak for the entire Covenant University community. A 500-level student, Toluwase Jesutunmise, sadly lost his life after collapsing during training on campus, leaving fellow students, staff, and loved ones in deep shock.
According to the university, the incident happened on Monday while Toluwase was actively participating in a football session. At some point during the training, he reportedly complained of leg pain and fatigue, then stepped away from the pitch. Moments later, those around him noticed he was gasping for breath, and panic immediately set in.
He was quickly rushed to the school’s medical centre, which is located close to the training ground. Medical personnel reportedly began emergency treatment immediately, using CPR and an automated external defibrillator in an attempt to revive him. Sadly, despite those efforts, he was pronounced dead on arrival at the emergency unit.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the university confirmed the tragic development and expressed sorrow over the loss. The Vice-Chancellor, Timothy Anake, described Toluwase as a vibrant and diligent student whose death has left a painful gap in the school community.
Preliminary findings, according to the institution, suggest that the student may have had an undisclosed heart condition, which could have contributed to the collapse. The university also maintained that there was no negligence on the part of its medical team, stating that emergency equipment was available and properly used during the rescue effort.
The school added that members of management have remained in contact with the family and are offering support during this difficult time. Still, the tragedy has once again raised serious concerns about student health monitoring, hidden medical conditions, and whether enough is being done to detect risks before emergencies happen.
For many students, this is no longer just another campus incident. It is a painful reminder that life can change in a moment, even in a place that is supposed to feel safe and familiar. Toluwase went out for training, like many young people do every day, but never made it back. And that is the part that hurts the most.